Upper Cervical Extension Isometric

Professional Rationale
Since the cervical stabilizers are hard to engage, this is a good exercise to start with, to introduce appropriate muscle firing patterns. Similar to a transverse abdominus contraction for the lumbar spine.

Client Rationale
This is an isometric exercise for your neck muscles. An isometric is when the muscle contracts, but no movement occurs. The muscles surrounding the neck are largely stabilizers, meaning they work to stabilize the head and neck while specific motions occur. This exercise helps them muscles to function they way they are supposed to.



Instructions

• Use your hands to try and tilt the chin towards the throat.
• Resist the motion and keep the head perfectly still.
• Release slowly.
• Lie on your back, place your fingers of both hands behind the head and the thumbs resting on the cheekbones.
• Do not allow the head to move.
• Do not strain.

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